2004 Maserati Spyder vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Maserati Spyder is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,254 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Maserati Spyder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Maserati Spyder (385 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Maserati Spyder should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 30 kg more than 2004 Maserati Spyder.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Maserati Spyder (447 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Maserati Spyder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Maserati Spyder | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spyder | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4254 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 385 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 80 L |
